Using a strong second half, the Savannah-Chatham police basketball team was able to avenge last year’s loss to Savannah Fire.

The teams battled to a 28-28 tie at halftime Saturday afternoon at Sol C. Johnson High School, but the police were able to pick up their game in the second half and win the third annual charity game 50-45.

Police Capt. Ben Herron said the game has grown into a tradition between the two departments and the winner gets bragging rights for a year.

“They won last year, but we won the year before,” he said. “The guys have a lot of fun with it, but everyone really wants to win. It’s the culmination of our United Way Campaign for public safety in the city of Savannah, so it’s fun and it’s a great cause.”

All ticket sales for the event went to the United Way of the Coastal Empire.

Although he was disappointed with the loss, Ben Morse, Savannah Fire’s assistant chief for operations, was pleased individuals from the department continued to support the game.

“It’s a great way to further the cause,” he said. “United Way is a great organization, so we do everything we can at the city of Savannah to support that.